Listening to Islamic songs and nashīds is permissible provided the songs are not accompanied by musical instruments [other than the tambourine (duff)]. The songs should not contain questionable lyrics.

Some jurists limit the permissibility of listening to nashīds only at special occasions such as weddings.

`Ᾱmir ibn Sa’d reported, “I visited Qurdha ibn Kā`b and Abū Mas’ūd Al Anṣāri during a wedding ceremony and there were young girls [in their presence] who were singing. I expressed, “You two are the Companions of Allāh’s Messenger (peace and blessings upon him) and among the participants of Badr and this is being done in your presence?” They both responded, “You may sit down if you like and listen with us and if you wish you may leave. We have been permitted to have entertainment at weddings.” [Sunan Al Nasa’ī]

The Prophet (peace and blessings upon him) said, “There will appear people in my community, who will hold adultery, silk, alcohol and musical instruments to be lawful.” (Bukhārī)

And Allah knows best.

Answered by Shaykh Yusuf BadatHadith of the Day ImamImam of the Islamic Foundation of Toronto and Director of Mathabah Institute